Winter Cake

Winter cake with oranges and whipped cream: a delicacy that will delight your senses

The cold season brings not only snow and holidays but also the perfect opportunity to prepare refined and flavorful desserts. One of the most beloved winter desserts is the cake with oranges and whipped cream. This cake is a delicious combination of textures and flavors, blending the sweetness of oranges with the creaminess of whipped cream and the crunchiness of ladyfingers. It is an elegant dessert, ideal for festive meals or to be enjoyed with loved ones on a cozy winter evening.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours
Number of servings: 10

Ingredients:

- 4 fresh oranges
- 400 g ladyfingers
- 1 kg whipped cream (unsweetened or sweetened, according to preferences)
- 2 packets of gelatin
- 400 ml concentrated coffee (preferably cold)
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (for the orange cream)
- 1 packet of whipped cream stabilizer
- 300 g buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 egg yolk
- Juice from half an orange
- Grated zest from 1 orange
- Orange essence (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Chocolate topping (for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the whipped cream: Start by whipping the cream. Use an electric mixer to achieve a fluffy and airy whipped cream. Add the powdered sugar and whipped cream stabilizer, mixing until the mixture becomes firm. Once you achieve the desired consistency, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill.

2. Orange cream: In a saucepan, mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 3 tablespoons of sugar, the egg yolk, buttermilk, juice, and grated zest of the orange. Place over medium heat and stir continuously for 4-5 minutes until the cream starts to thicken. It is important not to let it boil to avoid lumps.

3. Adding gelatin: After the cream has cooled, dissolve the gelatin in 100 ml of cold water. Heat the gelatin over low heat, being careful not to reach boiling point (between 70-80 degrees). Add the dissolved gelatin to the orange cream, mixing well to integrate the ingredients.

4. Combining whipped cream with the cream: When the cream mixture has completely cooled, you can add it over the whipped cream you whipped earlier. At this point, you can also add the diced oranges, which will give a fresh taste to your cake.

5. Assembling the cake: In a container, prepare the concentrated coffee. Dip the ladyfingers in the coffee, being careful not to soak them too much to avoid them falling apart. Place a first layer of ladyfingers in the pan where you will assemble the cake. Over them, add about one-third of the whipped cream and orange mixture.

6. Layer by layer: Continue adding another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining whipped cream mixture. Try to finish with a final layer of whipped cream, which will be the perfect base for decoration.

7. Cooling the cake: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and let it chill for 2-3 hours. This cooling time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly and the cake to achieve a firm and smooth texture.

8. Decorating the cake: After the cooling time has expired, remove the cake from the mold. You can decorate it with a topping of melted chocolate, additional whipped cream, and orange slices for a special look. This decoration not only looks good but also adds an extra flavor.

9. Serving: Cut the cake into slices and serve it with a cup of coffee or flavored tea. The combination with a warm drink will perfectly complete the tasting experience, bringing an extra comfort.

Useful tips:

- Use fresh and juicy oranges to obtain a cake with a vibrant taste and rich aroma. You can experiment with different types of oranges, but those with a more pronounced zest will provide extra flavor.
- Gelatin is essential to provide structure to the cake, so make sure to dissolve it correctly. Check the instructions on the package for the best results.
- If you want to add a splash of alcohol, you can soak the ladyfingers in coffee with a bit of orange liqueur. This variation will add a sophisticated note to your cake.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use plant-based whipped cream instead of dairy? Yes, you can use plant-based whipped cream, but the taste and texture may vary slightly.
- Is it possible to replace gelatin with another ingredient? Yes, you can use agar-agar, but you will need to follow the specific instructions to achieve a similar consistency.
- Can I prepare the cake a day in advance? Absolutely! The cake keeps well in the refrigerator and will be even tastier the next day, as the flavors will intensify.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

It is important to keep track of calories when enjoying this winter cake. A serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Oranges provide a rich source of vitamin C and fiber, while whipped cream offers a source of fats, which, when consumed in moderation, can be included in a balanced diet.

This winter cake with oranges and whipped cream is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it is a dessert that will bring joy and warmth to any heart. So, put on your apron and get ready to impress with this simple yet spectacular recipe!